
Chun's Reef North Shore Oahu
A North Shore gem offering excellent surf, clear waters for swimming, and a chance to find sea glass and spot turtles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better surf

Chun's Reef North Shore Oahu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better surf

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A North Shore gem offering excellent surf, clear waters for swimming, and a chance to find sea glass and spot turtles.
"Water is as beautiful as Lanikai, just much less people around. Another paradise."

🌊 Watch for Lava Rocks
Be cautious of lava rocks, especially if you're a beginner surfer.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is scarce; try parking directly across the street if possible.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Surfing at Chun's Reef
North Shore, Oahu
A renowned surf spot with fantastic right-hand waves, attracting surfers of all levels.
Snorkeling and Swimming
Designated areas of the beach
Enjoy clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming, often with fewer crowds than other Oahu beaches.
Sea Glass and Turtle Spotting
Along the shoreline
Discover beautiful sea glass and keep an eye out for majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Chun's Reef
Respecting Local Culture and Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Watch for Lava Rocks
Be cautious of lava rocks, especially if you're a beginner surfer.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is scarce; try parking directly across the street if possible.
🐢 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea turtles from a distance and avoid disturbing them.
💎 Hunt for Sea Glass
This beach is a great spot for finding beautiful sea glass.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Watch for Lava Rocks
Be cautious of lava rocks, especially if you're a beginner surfer.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is scarce; try parking directly across the street if possible.
🐢 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea turtles from a distance and avoid disturbing them.
💎 Hunt for Sea Glass
This beach is a great spot for finding beautiful sea glass.
🏄♀️ Beginner Surf Advice
Chun's Reef can be big; beginners might find Waikiki more manageable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chun's Reef is lauded as a beautiful, less crowded beach, often compared to Lanikai for its stunning waters. Visitors appreciate the distinct areas for swimming/snorkeling and surfing, and the chance to find sea glass and see turtles. Some caution beginners about lava rocks and wave size, and parking can be a significant challenge.
"Top 3 beaches in Oahu. Hidden gem, found it by accident. Water is as beautiful as Lanikai, just much less people around. Parking is scarce and it’s easy to miss but once you are there, it’s another paradise."
Dre Hernandez
"We had a great time here. One side of the beach was for swimming and snorkeling, the other side was for surfing. It made for a great Sunday post-church activity. Until some dude named Limmy showed up. Was he the devil? Someone needs to get an exorcist up in here. No, but the beach is great. I totally recommend."
M Crockett
"Chuns Reef Beach was the pretty cool beach to surf, but if you’re a beginner or first-time surfing at Chuns Reef Beach, be careful of lava rocks. Waves are fantastic, depending on the weather, but I had good waves to surf. Besides lava rocks, I think Chuns Reed Beach was a beautiful place to surf. And you will see many surfers are surfing at this beach as well."
Ray B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chun's Reef is located on the North Shore of Oahu. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking can be scarce, so arriving early or being prepared to walk a short distance is recommended. Some visitors find it by 'following their heart' and pulling over when they feel drawn to a spot.
While public transport options exist on Oahu, reaching specific North Shore beaches like Chun's Reef can be less direct. It's often easier to rent a car or join a guided tour that includes North Shore stops. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
Parking is notoriously scarce at Chun's Reef. Visitors suggest parking directly across the street from the beach if you're lucky, or being prepared to find parking further away and walk. Arriving early in the morning is your best bet.
Absolutely! While known for surfing, Chun's Reef also offers beautiful waters for swimming and snorkeling, and it's a great spot for finding sea glass and observing wildlife.
Chun's Reef is near the charming town of Haleiwa, known for its surf shops, art galleries, and local eateries like food trucks.
It's a great base for exploring the rest of the North Shore.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chun's Reef is a public beach and does not require any tickets or admission fees to enter. You can enjoy the beach and its amenities for free.
As a natural beach, Chun's Reef does not have set operating hours. It is accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
There is no entrance fee to access Chun's Reef. It's a public beach open to everyone.
Chun's Reef is a natural beach, and reservations or spot bookings are not possible. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and beach space.
Generally, no special permits are required for visiting Chun's Reef as a recreational beachgoer. However, always be mindful of local regulations regarding wildlife, beach access, and any temporary closures due to weather events like floods or tsunamis.
🎫 🏄♂️ Onsite Experience
Chun's Reef is famous for its excellent surfing conditions, particularly its right-hand waves.
It's also a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, collecting sea glass, and observing sea turtles.While some find it suitable, Chun's Reef can have larger waves and lava rocks, making it potentially challenging for absolute beginners. Many recommend starting in calmer spots like Waikiki before tackling Chun's.
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and plenty of water. If you plan to surf, bring your board. For snorkeling, bring a mask and snorkel. A bag for collecting sea glass is also a good idea.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms at Chun's Reef can be limited. It's advisable to come prepared and check local resources or nearby towns like Haleiwa for public facilities.
Yes, one side of Chun's Reef is often designated for swimming and snorkeling, offering beautiful clear waters.
Just be aware of surfers on the other side.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food vendors directly on Chun's Reef itself. It's a natural beach area.
The nearby town of Haleiwa offers a variety of dining options, including popular food trucks like Honos and Giovanni's for garlic shrimp, and local eateries.
Haleiwa Joe's is also a well-regarded spot.Food trucks are a North Shore staple! Honos and Giovanni's are frequently mentioned for their garlic shrimp.
Exploring the food truck scene in Haleiwa is a must-do.While Hawaii can be a pricier destination, supporting local businesses and opting for food trucks can offer more budget-friendly options compared to formal restaurants.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is a great idea for a picnic at Chun's Reef. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Chun's Reef offers stunning ocean views, surfers catching waves, and the chance to photograph sea turtles and sea glass. The sunsets can also be spectacular.
Yes, the North Shore is known for its beautiful sunsets, and Chun's Reef provides a scenic backdrop with the ocean and waves.
A versatile camera that can handle both landscape and action shots is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for the scenery and a telephoto lens if you want to capture surfers from a distance. Waterproof gear is a plus for beach photography.
Drone regulations can vary and are subject to change. It's essential to check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone in Hawaii. Respect private property and avoid flying over people or sensitive wildlife areas.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♂️ Surfers Seeking Waves
🏖️ Beachcombers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Chun's Reef: A North Shore Gem
When planning your surf session, always check the surf report and weather conditions. The North Shore can experience significant swells, and conditions can change rapidly. Respect local surfers and follow surf etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Beyond the Waves: Chun's Reef for Everyone
Nature lovers will appreciate Chun's Reef for its potential to find sea glass along the shore and for the chance to spot Hawaiian sea turtles. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid any interaction that could disturb them. The less crowded nature of Chun's Reef compared to other Oahu beaches makes it feel like a hidden paradise, perfect for a peaceful day by the ocean.
Navigating the North Shore: Tips from Locals and Visitors
When visiting the North Shore, it's important to embrace the local culture and environment. Supporting local businesses, respecting the 'aina (land), and being mindful of the community are key aspects of responsible tourism. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as flash floods can occur, and always stay informed about any advisories. The North Shore offers a more laid-back and natural side of Oahu, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine island experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit